Chief Technology Officer (CTO) JHB

SUMMARY:
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POSITION INFO:

About

My client is a leading pharmaceutical company committed to innovation, digital transformation, and global expansion. As we enter the next phase of growth, we seek a visionary Chief Technology Officer (CTO) to lead our technology strategy, data governance, digital transformation, and enterprise systems across all business units, including Austell (pharmaceuticals) and Mosaic (pharma cosmetics).

The CTO will play a critical role in leveraging advanced technologies, optimizing data-driven decision-making, and ensuring the security and scalability of Austell’s digital infrastructure.

Role Overview

The CTO will be responsible for shaping and executing Austell’s technology vision to enhance operational efficiency, innovation, and competitiveness. The ideal candidate is a strategic thinker, a hands-on leader, and an expert in AI, cloud computing, cybersecurity, and data analytics.

The CTO will report directly to the CEO and work closely with the executive leadership team to ensure that technology aligns with Austell’s global expansion strategy, regulatory compliance, and long-term business goals.

Key Performance Areas (Core, essential responsibilities – outputs of the position)

Key Responsibilities

Technology Strategy & Digital Transformation

· Develop and implement a technology roadmap aligned with Company growth and commercial strategies.

· Drive digital transformation initiatives, including AI-driven analytics, automation, IoT, and blockchain applications for supply chain and operations.

· Oversee the integration of digital tools into sales, marketing, and medical affairs to enhance engagement with healthcare professionals and consumers.

Data Strategy, Data Warehousing & Governance

· Lead the development and management of enterprise data warehouses to centralize, structure, and analyse business-critical data across all divisions.

· Establish and implement data governance frameworks to ensure data integrity, security, compliance, and accessibility.

· Optimize data architecture and cloud-based storage solutions for scalable and efficient data processing.

· Drive AI and predictive analytics initiatives to enhance decision-making in commercial and supply chain operations.

· Ensure compliance with global data privacy regulations (POPIA and SAHPRA) and industry best practices.

Enterprise Systems, IT Infrastructure & Cybersecurity

· Oversee ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning), CRM (Customer Relationship Management), and cloud-based digital infrastructure to ensure operational efficiency and scalability.

· Strengthen cybersecurity frameworks to safeguard Austell’s data, intellectual property, and regulatory compliance.

· Implement cloud and hybrid IT solutions to drive agility and cost-effectiveness.

· Make strategic decisions on IT hardware investments, ensuring alignment with business needs, cost efficiency, and future scalability.

· Ensure business continuity and disaster recovery strategies are in place for all technology functions.

AI, Data & Business Intelligence

· Implement AI-powered business intelligence solutions to optimize decision-making and performance tracking.

· Drive data analytics and machine learning models to enhance predictive forecasting, sales effectiveness, and operational efficiency.

· Ensure cross-functional teams can access real-time data insights for improved business decision-making.

Leadership, Team Management & Development

· Build and lead a high-performing technology team across IT, digital transformation, data analytics, and AI.

· Manage and mentor technology teams, ensuring strong collaboration, efficiency, and technical excellence.

· Foster a culture of innovation, agility, and continuous learning within company.

· Collaborate with the executive team to align technology initiatives with business goals.

Minimum Requirements

Key Qualifications & Experience

Essential Requirements:

· Education:

Bachelor's or Master’s degree in Computer Science, Engineering, AI, Data Science, or a related field. An MBA is a plus.

· Experience:

Minimum 10+ years of leadership experience in technology, data management, and digital transformation, preferably in pharmaceuticals, healthcare, life sciences, or consumer health.

Proven experience in managing teams, leading cross-functional technology initiatives, and driving innovation.

· Expertise in:

Enterprise Data Warehousing (EDW) and Data Governance Structures.

AI, big data, and machine learning applications in business.

ERP, CRM, and cloud-based digital infrastructure.

Cybersecurity, data privacy, and regulatory compliance (POPIA and SAHPRA).

IT hardware investment decisions and infrastructure management.

Agile methodologies and digital transformation frameworks.

· Proven leadership in building and scaling tech teams in a dynamic, growth-focused organization.

Preferred Skills & Attributes:

· Visionary thinker with the ability to anticipate and leverage emerging technologies.

· Experience in scaling technology in multinational operations.

· Strong business acumen with a track record of aligning technology with commercial success.

· Knowledge of pharmaceutical and healthcare technology trends.

· Ability to collaborate with cross-functional teams and executive leadership.

General working conditions (e.g. shift work, drivers’ license, specific tools, special clothing, environmental requirements, etc.)

Why Join?

· Global Expansion – Be a key player in company journey to becoming a global pharma leader.

· Innovation-Driven – Work with cutting-edge technologies in AI, digital health, and pharma-tech.

· High-Impact Leadership – Influence the strategic direction of a leading pharmaceutical company.

· Agile & Entrepreneurial Culture – Join a company that values innovation, speed, and operational excellence.

Travel:

· Work related Traveling

Salary and Benefits:

· Competitive salary based on experience and qualifications.

· Provident Fund